CBRN Legal Research and Regional Project Development
Organizational Context
The United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI) was established in 1968 to assist intergovernmental, governmental, and non-governmental organizations in developing and implementing crime prevention and criminal justice policies. UNICRI focuses on action-oriented analysis and technical assistance, with current priorities in justice reform, financial and emerging crimes, and security governance. As part of the EU's CBRN Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence Initiative, UNICRI develops capacity-building programs to enhance capabilities in investigating, prosecuting, and adjudicating CBRN crimes.
Job Purpose
Selected Online Volunteers will collaborate closely with the UNICRI team, under the supervision of the Regional Coordinator, to support impactful work in strengthening CBRN security, legal frameworks, and justice-related capacities across the region. This assignment involves contributing to research and analysis of existing legislation and the development of regional and sub-regional project proposals. The volunteers' efforts will directly contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of CBRN crime prevention and response mechanisms, fostering regional cooperation, and promoting knowledge sharing within the SEEE region. The goal is to build a coherent portfolio of regional projects based on national proposals.
Responsibilities
The Online Volunteer will conduct desk research on CBRN-related legislation, regulations, and legal frameworks in selected countries, identifying national laws governing the prevention, control, security, safety, transportation, storage, import/export, and use of CBRN materials. This includes collecting open-source legislation on non-proliferation, counter-terrorism, customs, border controls, and emergency response. The volunteer will identify relevant criminal law and procedure provisions for investigating, prosecuting, and adjudicating CBRN offences, including evidentiary requirements and prosecutorial procedures, as well as country adherence to international legal instruments. Additionally, the volunteer will support the transformation of national CBRN project proposals into regional and sub-regional projects by analyzing existing proposals, identifying common themes, grouping similar topics, and developing a coherent portfolio of regional and sub-regional projects to promote joint activities and efficient resource use.
Work Experience
Experience in legal research, analysis, and review of national and international legislation is required. Experience in criminal law and criminal procedure, particularly concerning investigations and prosecutions, is also necessary. Desirable experience includes comparative legal analysis, preparation of legal or policy matrices, and project development, proposal analysis, and identifying opportunities for regional cooperation.
Skills
Strong research, analytical, writing, and communication skills are essential. The ability to work effectively in an international and multidisciplinary team is crucial. Experience in legal research, analysis, and review of legislation, particularly in criminal law and procedure, is required. Skills in comparative legal analysis, policy matrix preparation, and project development are also valuable.